Presenter
MJ Kasprzak
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
While hallucinogens are now being used in mental health treatment, research examining recreational hallucinogen use over time, especially in relation to mental health comorbidities and demographic disparities, remains limited. This study aims to examine hallucinogen use trends over time among young adults, with a specific focus on demographic disparities and mental health comorbidities. This was an analysis of the 2022 and 2024 Rhode Island Young Adult Surveys, cross-sectional, self-report surveys administered to n=2,030 adults aged 18-25 who live in Rhode Island for at least part of the year. Among the 2,030 respondents, 9.9% reported hallucinogen use. The prevalence increased from 7.1% in 2022 to 12.7% in 2024, reflecting a statistically significant rise in use over time. Respondents in 2024 had nearly twice the odds of hallucinogen use compared to those in 2022. Significant disparities emerged by age and sex and/or gender. Compared to cisgender heterosexual males, cisgender heterosexual females had significantly lower odds of use, while those identifying as sexual and/or gender minorities had significantly higher odds. gender minorities had significantly higher odds. Hallucinogen use was also associated with increased odds of multiple mental health and substance use outcomes. Patterns of use suggest a need for targeted, demographically informed public health interventions that address the increasing recreational use of hallucinogens and the mental health implications.
Faculty Mentor
Samantha Rosenthal, Ph.D., MPH
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Kasprzak, MJ, "Hallucinogen Use Prevalence and Comorbidities" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 304.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/304
